"Jen Grow's stories are subtle, sophisticated, closely observed, and full of deep perception and real heart." -- Madison Smartt Bell // "Jen Grow’s astonishing collection explores what we think we want, what we think we need--and what we end up with, in language as burnished and gorgeous as a ruby. Filled with a myriad cast of dreamers, housewives and lost souls, all desperate to renovate their lives--or at least understand them-- these stories are both a meditation on escape and a testament to that fragile miracle--hope.” -- Caroline Leavitt, New York Times Bestselling author of Is This Tomorrow and Pictures of You // “These sharp, beautiful stories are gem-like explorations of loneliness and longing, cast in prose that is rich with dark humor, danger, and sadness. My Life as a Mermaid is an enchanting collection, and Jen Grow is a thrilling new talent.” – Laura van den Berg, author of The Isle of Youth and Find Me
